When you move into a newly built home with a new HVAC system, you can expect to get years of life from the unit as long as you care for the AC and furnace properly. It gives you peace of mind knowing you won't have to pay for a new HVAC any time soon, but if you neglect cleaning the unit and put off preventative maintenance, your system could break down and wear out too early. Here are three important steps for keeping your HVAC in good condition.

1. Have Your HVAC Serviced On Schedule

If you have an HVAC with a furnace and air conditioner, you'll want to have the system checked twice a year. Schedule an appointment in the fall after you've stopped using the air conditioner and before you turn on the furnace for the first time. During this appointment, the technician cleans the furnace to get rid of soot and dust buildup so the furnace operates safely and efficiently during the upcoming winter.

Then, in the spring before you turn on the AC, you'll want another appointment with the HVAC service company to clean the air conditioner parts to get it ready for the summer. Your air conditioner and furnace probably share the air handler, so it's in use most of the year and can accumulate dust quite easily.

Cleaning and servicing the air handler twice each year helps both the furnace and AC have a longer life. You may want to enter a service contract with the company so you'll be reminded when it's time to have your system serviced.

2. Watch For Unusual Behavior

When you have your system serviced regularly, you should have fewer breakdowns. However, it's good to stay alert to unusual noises and odors coming from the HVAC. These could indicate loose or malfunctioning parts that could cause damage to the system.

When your AC isn't cooling as well or when your furnace can't keep your home warm, call a repair technician right away. In some cases, running your AC or furnace when something is wrong with it could cause expensive damage to the parts.

3. Maintain Proper Airflow

The air handler requires plenty of air circulation so it can draw in air and circulate it through your home. Restricted airflow leads to problems with your HVAC. To prevent this, change the filter on schedule, which could be as often as once a month.

Also, keep the air handler free from dust and obstructions. It's important to keep the condenser outside free from obstructions and tall weeds too so the unit has adequate airflow and can cool your home efficiently.

Reach out to an HVAC service in your area for more information.